CHRIS LOWREY
SHAWVILLE Jan. 14, 2019
Farmers and dignitaries got a chance to get a look inside the Pontiac’s new abattoir as Abattoir les Viandes du Pontiac hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 14.
It was an opportunity for those who played a vital role in the project to come together and show off all the hard work that went into getting the facility up and running.
The event started with a few speeches by local politicians as well as abattoir owner Alain Lauzon.
He thanked those in attendance as well and had a special thank you for the municipality of Shawville for opening up its arms and welcoming him and his partners to the area.
Pontiac MNA André Fortin was on hand and had high praise for Lauzon.
“It came down to Alain’s determination,” Fortin said.
Fortin also pointed out the fact that the abattoir is going to be employing several local people as well.
“You’re making a tremendous effort to believe in the people of the Pontiac,” Fortin said.
Pontiac MP Will Amos was also on hand and said the abattoir was an example of what can be accomplished when different levels of government and the private sector work together.
He acknowledged that this project has been a long-awaited one and was excited to see it get off the ground.
“It’s going to be a big success,” Amos said.
MRC Pontiac Warden Jane Toller was also in attendance and gave kudos to the owners for working so closely with residents.
In April of last year, the owners held an information session after some residents had raised concerns about the facility.
Shawville Mayor Sandra Murray also spoke and thanked the business owners and other stakeholders for their hard work and for choosing Shawville as the abattoir’s home.
After the speeches, the several stakeholders came together for a ribbon cutting ceremony before getting a tour of the facility.
Those in attendance were taken through the building and shown the different stages the animals will go through.
The tour ended in the packing room where fresh cuts of meat were being vacuum-sealed. “Those look fit for a barbeque tonight,” quipped Amos.











